“It did not rise to the threshold as a code violation under our student code.” So said Western University’s associate vice-­president of student experience Jana Luker to a London Free Press reporter.

Hardly a ringing endorsement of freedom of expression or freedom of political ­comment.

Western should apologize to the students, state publicly that it erred in investigating them, and express regret that its actions may well have chilled freedom of expression on campus.

Mark Mercer

Halifax, N.S.

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Share costs evenly

There is a great divide between urban and rural residents in Ontario. Consider electricity rates and property taxes.

High electricity distribution charges for rural areas are punishing low-income residents and putting businesses at a competitive disadvantage. Seniors are being forced out of their homes.

There is a simple solution. Level the playing field with a flat rate for electricity distribution across Ontario. The burden on urban areas would be relatively light. The relief for rural areas would be huge.

Property taxes are another anomaly. A house valued at $1 million in Toronto might have taxes below $3,000. A house valued at $300,000 in rural Ontario will likely generate more than $3,000 in taxes. A modest property tax increase in Toronto would, again, level the paying field and reduce pressure on the Ontario budget.

There is a problem with every political party in Ontario. The votes are in Toronto.